NCW Tech Alliance Announces Leadership Transition

WENATCHEE — The NCW Tech Alliance Board of Directors has unveiled a planned leadership transition, marking a significant milestone in the organization's history.

For the past eight years, Jenny Rojanasthien has been at the helm as the inaugural Executive Director of the NCW Tech Alliance. Her leadership has transformed the organization from a grassroots, volunteer-driven initiative into the thriving regional powerhouse it is today. When Rojanasthien took the reins in 2015, the alliance hosted only seven events annually. Now, it proudly offers over 45 events each year.

Reflecting on her journey, Rojanasthien shared,  "It has been a profound honor to collaborate with our members, sponsors, and community partners to create impactful events, meaningful programs, and year-round resources. Serving as the Executive Director has been the highlight of my professional career to date. I want to thank the Board of Directors for empowering me to build, grow, and transform the organization these past eight years."

Walter Thorn, President of the NCW Tech Alliance Board, expressed heartfelt gratitude for Rojanasthien's contributions, stating, "We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Jenny for her contributions as Executive Director of the NCW Tech Alliance over the past eight years. Her entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to our community have resulted in significant growth of the organization and its impact under her leadership. She has left an indelible mark on our community, enriching the lives of students, entrepreneurs, and countless others throughout North Central Washington. As Jenny embarks on a new chapter in her career, she leaves behind a legacy that will continue to be a source of inspiration for us all."

Assuming the role of Chief Executive Officer officially on Oct.16, Dr. Sue Kane joins the NCW Tech Alliance team. Dr. Kane, based in Wenatchee since 2011, has served as the Director of STEM Initiatives for the North Central Educational Services District and Co-Director of the Apple STEM Network and Career Connect Washington North Central Networks. Her extensive cross-sector collaborations have facilitated public-private partnerships and policy changes that enhance educational and training opportunities for thousands of young people across the region.

Board President Walter Thorn emphasized,  “Dr. Kane has been a key partner in expanding NCW Tech Alliance's impact in STEM Education for the past seven years. Her leadership ability, strategic insight, and steadfast dedication make her the ideal candidate to lead the organization into its next chapter,” Rojanasthien added, “I can step down from this leadership position with optimism and confidence for the organization under Dr. Kane’s leadership,”

While Rojanasthien's formal title may change, her commitment to the NCW Tech Alliance remains unwavering. In a part-time capacity, she will continue to collaborate with Dr. Kane, focusing on spearheading essential entrepreneurial programs, including the annual Flywheel Investment Conference.

To commemorate this leadership transition and celebrate the innovative spirit of the community, the NCW Tech Alliance invites everyone to attend the 22nd Innovator Awards Luncheon on Wednesday, Nov. 8. Since its inception in 2001, this luncheon has served as a platform for recognizing the relentless drive, passion, and creativity of innovators in North Central Washington. This year's event will be a celebration of the leadership transition while paying tribute to regional innovators in entrepreneurship, technology, and STEM Education. Early bird tickets are available with a 20% discount through the end of September using the code EARLYBIRD.